Recent research indicates that the Colorado River basin could get more precipitation in the next 25 years, which would be a major benefit to regions of the Southwest that depend on the river as a significant source of water. If the increased precipitation leads to higher average river flows — despite effects of rising temperatures due to climate change and other factors — it’s good news for the region’s population and economy. However, Enrique Vivoni, a professor in the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, part of the Fulton Schools, and director of ASU’s Center for Hydrologic Innovations, points out some challenges to accurately predicting increases in precipitation and its expected impacts.